Dishwasher with humidifier cycle of operation

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for operating a dishwasher as a humidifier. The method includes, in response to an input indicating a humidifying cycle of operation, implementing the humidifying cycle of operation. The humidifying cycle of operation can include generating moisture-laden air within a treating chamber of the dishwasher and emitting the generated moisture-laden air to an exterior surrounding the dishwasher. The dishwasher implementing the humidifying cycle of operation or the dish treating cycle of operation, where the humidifying cycle and the dish treating cycle are not simultaneously implemented.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to a dishwasher, and morespecifically, operating a dishwasher as a humidifier.

BACKGROUND

Dishwashers are a ubiquitous household appliance, which serve a veryuseful function of washing dirty dishes, relieving the consumer of anundesirable household task. Most dishwashers have a heated drying phasewhere the treating chamber holding the dishes is heated to evaporatewater remaining on the dishes. During the heated drying phase, warm,moisture-laden air is expelled from the treating chamber, and often hasthe appearance of steam, fog, water vapor, etc., which can be concerningto some consumers. Thus, the visual appearance to the consumer of themoisture-laden air is undesirable and dishwashers often process themoisture-laden air within the dishwasher or control its venting from thedishwasher to conceal or reduce the visual impact, or eliminate themoisture-laden air altogether by passing the moisture-laden air throughcondensers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

One aspect of the disclosure relates to a method of operating adishwasher as a humidifier, the method comprising in response to aninput indicating a humidifying cycle of operation, implementing thehumidifying cycle of operation by generating moisture-laden air within atreating chamber of the dishwasher, and emitting the generatedmoisture-laden air to an exterior surrounding the dishwasher, withoutthe simultaneous implementation of a dish treating cycle of operation.

Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a dishwasher for treatingdishes according to a dish treating cycle of operation, the dishwashercomprising a tub at least partially defining a treating chamber, a doorassembly for selectively closing the treating chamber, a water supplysystem fluidly coupling a household water supply to the treatingchamber, a ventilation system for exhausting moisture-laden air from thetreating chamber, a controller located within the dishwasher housing,wherein the controller includes information related to a humidifyingcycle of operation and the dish treating cycle of operation, and areceiver located within the housing and in communication with thecontroller, wherein the receiver receives a humidity signal indicativeof a humidity level of an environment exterior of the dishwasher,wherein the controller selectively operates the humidifying cycle of thedishwasher in response to the humidity signal received by the receiverand communicated to the controller.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a right-side perspective view of an automatic dishwasherhaving multiple systems for implementing an automatic cycle ofoperation.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the dishwasher of FIG. 1 and illustratingat least some of the plumbing and electrical connections between atleast some of the multiple systems.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an alternative user interface for thedishwasher of FIGS. 1 and 2 .

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a controller of the dishwasher of FIGS. 1and 2 .

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating the dishwasherof FIG. 1-4 to increasing indoor humidity.

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a steam dryer having multiplesystems for implementing a cycle of operation and a humidifying cycle ofoperation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a household appliance as an automatic dishwasher 10capable of implementing a dish treating cycle of operation or ahumidifying cycle of operation. The dish treating cycle of operation andthe humidifying cycle of operation can be automatic cycles performed bythe dishwasher 10. The humidifying cycle of operation can be implementedby a user selecting a corresponding cycle input, with the selectionbeing local, such as selecting a cycle input on a user interface of thedishwasher, or it can be remotely selected, such as by the userselecting a cycle on an electronic device, such as a smart phone ortable, which communicates, typically wirelessly, with the dishwasher.The humidifying cycle of operation can also be implemented by a sensorinput to the dishwasher. The sensor can be part of the dishwasher or canbe a remote sensor, which can remotely communicate with the dishwasher,such as by WI-FI, Bluetooth, etc. A possible remote sensor is ahousehold HVAC controller having a humidity sensor.

As used in this description, the term “dish(es)” is intended to begeneric to any item, single or plural, that can be treated in thedishwasher 10, including, without limitation, dishes, plates, pots,bowls, pans, glassware, and silverware. As illustrated, the dishwasher10 is a built-in dishwasher implementation, which is designed formounting under a countertop. However, this description is applicable toother dishwasher implementations such as a stand-alone, drawer-type or asink-type, for example.

The dishwasher 10 has a variety of systems, some of which arecontrollable, to implement the automatic cycle of operation of treatingdishes or the automatic cycle of humidification. A chassis is providedto support the variety of systems needed to implement the automaticcycle of operation of treating dishes or the automatic cycle ofhumidification. As illustrated, for a built-in implementation, thechassis includes a frame in the form of a base 12 on which is supportedan open-faced tub 14, which at least partially defines a treatingchamber 16, having an open face 18, for receiving the dishes. A closurein the form of a door assembly 20 is pivotally mounted to the base 12for movement between opened and closed positions to selectively open andclose the open face 18 of the tub 14. Thus, the door assembly 20provides selective accessibility to the treating chamber 16 for theloading and unloading of dishes or other items. While illustrated as asingle panel, multiple parts can together define the door assembly 20.

An opening assembly 21 can be used to push or release the door assembly20 into an at least partially open position. When at least partiallyopen the treating chamber 16 is fluidly coupled to an exterior 112 ofthe dishwasher 10. The opening assembly 21 can automatically open thedoor assembly 20, maybe slightly ajar, during or at the conclusion ofthe dish treating cycle of operation or the humidifying cycle ofoperation.

The chassis, as in the case of the built-in dishwasher implementation,can be formed by other parts of the dishwasher 10, like the tub 14 andthe door assembly 20, in addition to a dedicated frame structure, likethe base 12, with them all collectively forming a uni-body frame towhich the variety of systems are supported. In other implementations,like the drawer-type dishwasher, the chassis can be a tub that isslidable relative to a frame, with the closure being a part of thechassis or the countertop of the surrounding cabinetry. In a sink-typeimplementation, the sink forms the tub and the cover closing the opentop of the sink forms the closure. Sink-type implementations are morecommonly found in recreational vehicles.

The systems supported by the chassis, while essentially limitless, caninclude dish holding system 30, spray system 40, recirculation system50, drain system 60, water supply system 70, drying system 80, waterheating assembly 90, filter system 100, and venting system 110. Thesesystems are used to implement the dish treating cycle of operation.

The water supply system 70, the water heating assembly 90, and theventing system 110 can be collectively controlled to function as ahumidifier assembly 130.

The humidifying cycle of operation or the dish treating cycle ofoperation can include automatic cycles performed by the dishwasher 10.The dish treating cycle of operation includes at least a basictraditional automatic wash cycle. The humidifying cycle of operationincludes at least a basic automatic humidification cycle where the basicautomatic humidification cycle can be implemented by a user selecting acycle or by a sensor input provided to the dishwasher 10.

A basic traditional automatic wash cycle of operation has a wash phase,where a detergent/water mixture is recirculated and then drained, whichis then followed by a rinse phase where water alone or with a rinseagent is recirculated and then drained. An optional drying phase canfollow the rinse phase. More commonly, the automatic wash cycle hasmultiple wash phases and multiple rinse phases. The multiple wash phasescan include a pre-wash phase where water, with or without detergent, issprayed or recirculated on the dishes, and can include a dwell orsoaking phase. There can be more than one pre-wash phases. A wash phase,where water with detergent is recirculated on the dishes, follows thepre-wash phases. There can be more than one wash phase; the number ofwhich can be sensor controlled based on the amount of sensed soils inthe wash liquid. One or more rinse phases will follow the wash phase(s),and, in some cases, come between wash phases. The number of wash phasescan also be sensor controlled based on the amount of sensed soils in therinse liquid. The wash phases and rinse phases can include the heatingof the water, even to the point of one or more of the phases being hotenough for long enough to sanitize the dishes. A drying phase can followthe rinse phase(s). The drying phase can include a drip dry, heated dry,condensing dry, air dry or any combination.

The basic automatic humidification cycle includes generatingmoisture-laden air within the treating chamber 16 of the dishwasher 10.The moisture-laden air can be generated by heating liquid. Oncegenerated, the moisture-laden air is vented to the exterior 112 of thedishwasher 10 via the venting system 110, which optionally includes anautomatic door opener. The humidifying cycle of operation can be any oneof many humidifying cycles of operation. The humidifying cycles candiffer, for example, in duration or volume of moisture-laden airexhausted to the exterior 112.

A controller 22 can also be included in the dishwasher 10 and operablycouples with and controls the various components of the dishwasher 10 toimplement the cycle of operation. The controller 22 can be locatedwithin the door assembly 20 as illustrated, or it can alternatively belocated somewhere within the chassis. The controller 22 can also beoperably coupled with a control panel or user interface 24 for receivinguser-selected inputs and communicating information to the user. The userinterface 24 can include operational controls such as dials, lights,switches, and displays enabling a user to input commands, such as a dishtreating cycle of operation or humidification cycle of operation, to thecontroller 22 and receive information.

At least one local humidity sensor 25 can be coupled to the dishwasher10. While the location of the humidity system can vary, it iscontemplated that it can be located at the base 12, the tub 14, or thedoor assembly 20. The at least one local humidity sensor 25 can be usedto sense one or both of the ambient air surrounding the dishwasher orthe moisture-laden air emitted from the dishwasher, although most likelybeing used to sense the moisture of the ambient air. The at least onelocal humidity sensor 25 can be in communication with the controller 22via a wired or wireless connection.

Additionally, or alternatively, at least one remote humidity sensor 23can be separate or remote from the dishwasher 10. The at least oneremote humidity sensor 23 can be in communication with the controller 22via a wired or wireless connection, although most likely wireless. Thatis, the at least one remote humidity sensor 23 can communicate with thecontroller 22 using, for example, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), WiMax,Bluetooth, ZigBee, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) wireless signal,Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), 3G wireless signal, 4Gwireless signal, 5G wireless signal, Long Term Evolution (LTE) signal,Ethernet, or any combinations thereof. It will also be understood thatthe particular type or mode of wired or wireless communication is notcritical to this disclosure, and later-developed wired or wirelessnetworks or communications are certainly contemplated as within thescope of this disclosure.

The user interface 24 can include a humidity cycle selector 26. Whileillustrated as a single input/output, the humidity cycle selector 26 caninclude any number of input and output portions at or adjacent the userinterface 24.

The dish holding system 30 can include any suitable structure forholding dishes within the treating chamber 16. Exemplary dish holdersare illustrated in the form of upper dish racks 32 and lower dish rack34, commonly referred to as “racks”, which are located within ormoveably received by the treating chamber 16. The upper dish racks 32and the lower dish rack 34 are typically mounted for slidable movementin and out of the treating chamber 16 through the open face 18 for easeof loading and unloading. Drawer guides/slides/rails 36 are typicallyused to slidably mount the upper dish rack 32 to the tub 14. The lowerdish rack 34 typically has wheels or rollers 38 that roll along railsformed in sidewalls of the tub 14 and onto the door assembly 20, whenthe door assembly 20 is in the opened position.

Dedicated dish holders can also be provided. One such dedicated dishholder is a third level rack 28 located above the upper dish rack 32.Like the upper dish rack 32, the third level rack 28 is slidably mountedto the tub 14 with drawer guides/slides/rails 36 and movably receivedwithin the treating chamber 16. The third level rack 28 is typicallyused to hold utensils, such as tableware, spoons, knives, spatulas,etc., in an on-the-side or flat orientation. However, the third levelrack 28 is not limited to holding utensils. If an item can fit in thethird level rack, it can be washed in the third level rack 28. The thirdlevel rack 28 generally has a much shorter height or lower profile thanthe upper and lower dish racks 32, 34. Typically, the height of thethird level rack is short enough that a typical glass cannot be stoodvertically in the third level rack 28 and the third level rack 28 stillslide into the treating chamber 16.

Another dedicated dish holder can be a silverware basket (not shown),which is typically carried by one of the upper or lower dish racks 32,34 or mounted to the door assembly 20. The silverware basket typicallyholds utensils and the like in an upright orientation as compared to theon-the-side or flat orientation of the third level rack 28.

A dispenser assembly 48 is provided to dispense treating chemistry, e.g.detergent, anti-spotting agent, etc., into the treating chamber 16during the dish treating cycle of operation. The dispenser assembly 48can be mounted on an inner surface of the door assembly 20, as shown, orcan be located at other positions within the chassis. The dispenserassembly 48 can dispense one or more types of treating chemistries. Thedispenser assembly 48 can be a single-use dispenser or a bulk dispenser,or a combination of both.

The venting system 110 fluidly couples the treating chamber 16 and theexterior 112 of the dishwasher 10. As illustrated, by way of example,the venting system 110 can include an inlet 114 at the door assembly 20that is fluidly coupled to at least one outlet illustrated as a vent116. One or more conduits 115 can couple the inlet 114 and the outletsor the vents 116. It is also contemplated that within the conduit is anexhaust fan 117. While illustrated in the conduit 115, it iscontemplated that the exhaust fan 117 can be any number of exhaust fanslocated in or fluidly coupled to the treating chamber 16.

While illustrated at a side portion of the door assembly 20, it iscontemplated that the vent 116 can be located at a front side 29 of thedoor assembly 20. It is further contemplated that the venting system 110can include any number of inlet or outlet vents located at the doorassembly 20 or other portion(s) of the base 12 or tub 14. For example,since a substantial portion of the door assembly 20 tends to be hollow,the vent 116 can be located along all or portions of the bottom edge ofthe door assembly 20, where the vent 116 is not seen by the user.

The inlet 114 or the vent 116 can be selectively opened, closed, orpartially opened. The selection of opened, closed, or partially openedof the inlet 114 or the vent 116 can be independently controlled oralign with the activation or deactivation of the fan 117. Optionally,flow directors can be located at the inlet 114 or the vent 116. The flowdirectors can be fixed or movable.

Optionally, the venting system 110 can include one or more conduits 118.The one or more conduits 118 can fluidly couple the treating chamber 16to a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system 120, a heatrecovery ventilator (HRV), a heat exchanger, or other household orbusiness duct work. That is, the one or more conduits 118 of the ventingsystem 110 can fluidly couple the treating chamber 16 to the exterior112 of dishwasher 10 via, for example, one or more registers 121 in theHVAC system 120.

The venting system 110 can include any number of inlets 114, outlets orvents 116, flow directors, conduits, fans, impellers, heat exchangers,or valve systems to control or promote the ventilation of moisture-ladenair from the treating chamber 16 to the exterior 112 of the dishwasher10. Portions of the venting system 110, such as the inlet 114, outlet(s)or vent 116, flow directors, conduits fans, impellers, heat exchangers,valve systems, can be located in the door assembly 20, the tub 14, thebase 12, or treating chamber 16.

The venting system 110 can optionally include the opening assembly 21that can automatically open the door assembly 20 to fluidly couple thetreating chamber 16 and the exterior 112 of the dishwasher 10.

Turning to FIG. 2 , the spray system 40 is provided for spraying liquidin the treating chamber 16 and can have multiple spray assemblies orsprayers, some of which can be dedicated to a particular one of the dishholders, to particular area of a dish holder, to a particular type ofcleaning, or to a particular level of cleaning, etc. The sprayers can befixed or movable, such as rotating, relative to the treating chamber 16or dish holder. Six exemplary sprayers are illustrated and include, anupper spray arm 41, a lower spray arm 42, a third level sprayer 43, adeep-clean sprayer 44, and a spot sprayer 45. The upper spray arm 41 andlower spray arm 42 are illustrated as rotating spray arms, located belowthe upper dish rack 32 and the lower dish rack 34, respectively, androtate about a generally centrally located and vertical axis. However,it is contemplated that the upper spray arm 41 or the lower spray arm 42can be fixed. The third level sprayer 43 is located above the thirdlevel rack 28. The third level sprayer 43 is illustrated as being fixed,but could move, such as in rotating. In addition to the third levelsprayer 43 or in place of the third level sprayer 43, a sprayer 49,illustrated as a stationary sprayer, can be located at least in partbelow a portion of the third level rack 28. The sprayer 49 isillustrated as a having a fixed or stationary sprayer housing or tube,carried by the third level rack 28, but the sprayer housing or tubecould move, such as, but not limited to, rotating about a longitudinalaxis.

The deep-clean sprayer 44 is a manifold extending along a rear wall ofthe tub 14 and has multiple nozzles 46, with multiple apertures,generating an intensified and/or higher pressure spray than the upperspray arm 41, the lower spray arm 42, or the third level sprayer 43. Thenozzles 46 can be fixed or move, such as in rotating. The spray emittedby the deep-clean sprayer 44 defines a deep clean zone, which, asillustrated, would like along a rear side of the lower dish rack 34.Thus, dishes needing deep cleaning, such as dishes with baked-on food,can be located in the lower dish rack 34 to face the deep-clean sprayer44. The deep-clean sprayer 44, while illustrated as only one unit on arear wall of the tub 14 could comprises multiple units and/or extendalong multiple portions, including different walls, of the tub 14, andcan be provide above, below or beside any of the dish holders withdeep-cleaning is desired.

The spot sprayer 45, like the deep-clean sprayer, can emit anintensified and/or higher pressure spray, especially to a discretelocation within one of the dish holders. While the spot sprayer 45 isshown below the lower dish rack 34, it could be adjacent any part of anydish holder or along any wall of the tub where special cleaning isdesired. In the illustrated location below the lower dish rack 34, thespot sprayer can be used independently of or in combination with thelower spray arm 42. The spot sprayer 45 can be fixed or can move, suchas in rotating.

These six sprayers are illustrative examples of suitable sprayers andare not meant to be limiting as to the type of suitable sprayers.

The recirculation system 50 recirculates the liquid sprayed into thetreating chamber 16 by the sprayers of the spray system 40 back to thesprayers to form a recirculation loop or circuit by which liquid can berepeatedly and/or continuously sprayed onto dishes in the dish holders.The recirculation system 50 can include a sump 51 and a pump assembly52. The sump 51 collects the liquid sprayed in the treating chamber 16and can be formed by a sloped or recess portion of a bottom wall of thetub 14. The pump assembly 52 can include one or more pumps such asrecirculation pump 53. The sump 51 can also be a separate module that isaffixed to the bottom wall and include the pump assembly 52. Therecirculation system 50 can be active during the dish treating cycles ofoperation. That is, the recirculation system 50 provides liquid sprayedinto the treating chamber 16 by the sprayers of the spray system 40 backto the sprayers. However, during the humifying cycle(s) of operation, itis contemplated that portions the recirculation system 50 are inactive.That is, for example, while water is supplied to the sump 51 via aportion of the recirculation system 50 to maintain a proper fluid levelfor the humidifying cycle of operation, the liquid in the sump 51 is notreturned to one or more portions of the spray system 40. During thehumidifying cycle of operation, since there is no need to treat dishes,there is no reason to run the recirculation system 50 and waste theconsumed energy.

Multiple supply conduits 54, 55, 56, 57, 58 fluidly couple the sprayers43, 44, 45, 49 to the recirculation pump 53. A recirculation valve 59can selectively fluidly couple each of the conduits 54-58 to therecirculation pump 53. While each sprayer 43, 44, 45, 49 is illustratedas having a corresponding dedicated supply conduit 54-58 one or moresubsets, comprising multiple sprayers from the total group of sprayers43, 44, 45, 49, can be supplied by the same conduit, negating the needfor a dedicated conduit for each sprayer. For example, a single conduitcan supply the upper spray arm 41 and the third level sprayer 43.Another example is that the sprayer 49 is supplied liquid by the conduit56, which also supplies the third level sprayer 43.

The recirculation valve 59, while illustrated as a single valve, can beimplemented with multiple valves. Additionally, one or more of theconduits can be directly coupled to the recirculation pump 53, while oneor more of the other conduits can be selectively coupled to therecirculation pump with one or more valves.

The water heating assembly 90 can include an inline heater 91 or aheating element 92. While illustrated as having both the inline heater91 and the heating element 92, it is contemplated that the water heatingassembly 90 can include any number of heating or elements, includingjust one of the inline heater 91 or the heating element 92.

The inline heater 91 is illustrated as downstream of the recirculationpump 53 and upstream of the recirculation valve 59. The inline heater 91can heat liquid flowing through the inline heater 91 to provide heatedliquid to the treating chamber 16. Additionally, or alternatively, forthe humidifying cycle of operation, the flowrate of the liquid suppliedto the inline heater 91 can be controlled such that in addition to hotwater, the inline heater 91 can provide water vapor or steam in the formof moisture-laden air to the treating chamber 16. It is contemplatedthat the inline heater 91 can be multiple heating assemblies located inone or more portions of the recirculation system 50 or the water supplysystem 70.

There are essentially an unlimited number of plumbing schemes to connectthe inline heater 91 and the recirculation system 50 or the spray system40. The illustrated plumbing is not limiting.

The heating element 92 is illustrated as a submersible heater orimmersion heater, that is illustrated, by example as located in the sump51 of the treating chamber 16. It is contemplated that the heatingelement 92 can be one or more heating elements located in the treatingchamber 16.

A drain system 60 drains liquid from the treating chamber 16. The drainsystem 60 includes a drain pump 62 fluidly coupled the treating chamber16 to a drain line 64. As illustrated the drain pump 62 fluidly couplesthe sump 51 to the drain line 64.

While separate recirculation and drain pumps 53 and 62 are illustrated,a single pump can be used to perform both the recirculating and thedraining functions. Alternatively, the drain pump 62 can be used torecirculate liquid in combination with the recirculation pump 53. Whenboth a recirculation pump 53 and drain pump 62 are used, the drain pump62 is typically more robust than the recirculation pump 53 as the drainpump 62 tends to have to remove solids and soils from the sump 51,unlike the recirculation pump 53, which tends to recirculate liquidwhich has solids and soils filtered away to some extent.

A water supply system 70 is provided for supplying fresh water to thedishwasher 10 from a household water supply via a household water valve71. The water supply system 70 includes a water supply unit 72 having awater supply conduit 73 with a siphon break 74. While the water supplyconduit 73 can be directly fluidly coupled to the tub 14 or any otherportion of the dishwasher 10, the water supply conduit is shown fluidlycoupled to a supply tank 75, which can store the supplied water prior touse. The supply tank 75 is fluidly coupled to the sump 51 by a supplyline 76, which can include a controllable valve 77 to control when wateris released from the supply tank 75 to the sump 51.

The supply tank 75 can be conveniently sized to store a predeterminedvolume of water, such as a volume required for a phase of the dishtreating cycle of operation or humidifying cycle of operation, which iscommonly referred to as a “charge” of water. The storing of the water inthe supply tank 75 prior to use is beneficial in that the water in thesupply tank 75 can be “treated” in some manner, such as softening orheating prior to use.

A water softener 78 is provided with the water supply system 70 tosoften the fresh water. The water softener 78 is shown fluidly couplingthe water supply conduit 73 to the supply tank 75 so that the suppliedwater automatically passes through the water softener 78 on the way tothe supply tank 75. However, the water softener 78 could directly supplythe water to any other part of the dishwasher 10 than the supply tank75, including directly supplying the tub 14. Alternatively, the watersoftener 78 can be fluidly coupled downstream of the supply tank 75,such as in-line with the supply line 76. Wherever the water softener 78is fluidly coupled, it can be done so with controllable valves, suchthat the use of the water softener 78 is controllable and not mandatory.

A drying system 80 is provided to aid in the drying of the dishes duringthe drying phase. The drying system as illustrated includes a condensingassembly 81 having a condenser 82 formed of a serpentine conduit 83 withan inlet fluidly coupled to an upper portion of the tub 14 and an outletfluidly coupled to a lower portion of the tub 14, whereby moisture-ladenair within the tub 14 is drawn from the upper portion of the tub 14,passed through the serpentine conduit 83, where liquid condenses out ofthe moisture-laden air and is returned to the treating chamber 16 whereit ultimately evaporates or is drained via the drain pump 62. Theserpentine conduit 83 can be operated in an open loop configuration,where the air is exhausted to atmosphere, a closed loop configuration,where the air is returned to the treating chamber, or a combination ofboth by operating in one configuration and then the other configuration.

To enhance the rate of condensation, the temperature difference betweenthe exterior of the serpentine conduit 83 and the moisture-laden air canbe increased by cooling the exterior of the serpentine conduit 83 or thesurrounding air. To accomplish this, an optional cooling tank 84 isadded to the condensing assembly 81, with the serpentine conduit 83being located within the cooling tank 84. The cooling tank 84 is fluidlycoupled to at least one of the spray system 40, recirculation system 50,drain system 60 or water supply system 70 such that liquid can besupplied to the cooling tank 84. The liquid provided to the cooling tank84 from any of the systems 40-70 can be selected by source and/or byphase of dish treating cycles of operation such that the liquid is at alower temperature than the moisture-laden air or even lower than theambient air.

As illustrated, the liquid is supplied to the cooling tank 84 by thedrain system 60. A valve 85 fluidly connects the drain line 64 to asupply conduit 86 fluidly coupled to the cooling tank 84. A returnconduit 87 fluidly connects the cooling tank 84 back to the treatingchamber 16 via a return valve 79. In this way a fluid circuit is formedby the drain pump 62, drain line 64, valve 85, supply conduit 86,cooling tank 84, return valve 79 and return conduit 87 through whichliquid can be supplied from the treating chamber 16, to the cooling tank84, and back to the treating chamber 16. Alternatively, the supplyconduit 86 could fluidly couple to the drain line 64 if re-use of theliquid is not desired.

To supply cold water from the household water supply via the householdwater valve 71 to the cooling tank 84, the water supply system 70 wouldfirst supply cold water to the treating chamber 16, then the drainsystem 60 would supply the cold water in the treating chamber 16 to thecooling tank 84. It should be noted that the supply tank 75 and coolingtank 84 could be configured such that one tank performs both functions.

The drying system 80 can use ambient air, instead of cold water, to coolthe exterior of the serpentine conduit 83. In such a configuration, ablower 88 is connected to the cooling tank 84 and can supply ambient airto the interior of the cooling tank 84. The cooling tank 84 can have avented top 89 to permit the passing through of the ambient air to allowfor a steady flow of ambient air blowing over the serpentine conduit 83.

The cooling air from the blower 88 can be used in lieu of the cold wateror in combination with the cold water. The cooling air will be used whenthe cooling tank 84 is not filled with liquid. Advantageously, the useof cooling air or cooling water, or combination of both, can be selectedon the site-specific environmental conditions. If ambient air is coolerthan the cold water temperature, then the ambient air can be used. Ifthe cold water is cooler than the ambient air, then the cold water canbe used. Cost-effectiveness can also be considered or accounted for whenselecting between cooling air and cooling water. The blower 88 can beused to dry the interior of the cooling tank 84 after the water has beendrained. Suitable temperature sensors for the cold water and the ambientair can be provided and send their temperature signals to the controller22, which can determine which of the two is colder at any time or phaseof the dish treating cycle of operation.

The drying system 80 can be active during the dish treating cycles ofoperation. That is, the drying system 80 can remove the moisture fromthe air of the treating chamber 16 prior to returning the air to thetreating chamber 16 during a cycle of operation for dishes. However,during the humifying cycle(s) of operation, it is contemplated thatportions the drying system 80 are inactive. That is, for example, themoisture-laden air is not recirculated back to the treating chamber 16,rather the moisture-laden air is vented. It is contemplated thatportions of the drying system 80 can be used in the venting system 110.

Optionally, a heating circuit 93 having a heat exchanger 94, illustratedas a serpentine conduit 95, can be located within the supply tank 75,with a supply conduit 96 supplying liquid from the treating chamber 16to the serpentine conduit 95, and a return conduit 97 fluidly coupled tothe treating chamber 16. The heating circuit 93 is fluidly coupled tothe recirculation pump 53 either directly or via the recirculation valve59 such that liquid that is heated as part of the dish treating cycle ofoperation or the humidifying cycle of operation can be recirculatedthrough the heat exchanger 94 to transfer the heat to the charge offresh water residing in the supply tank 75. As most wash phases useliquid that is heated by the inline heater 91 or the heating element 92that can then be recirculated through the heating circuit 93 to transferthe heat to the charge of water in the supply tank 75, which istypically used in the next phase of the dish treating cycle of operationor in future cycle such as a humidifying cycle of operation.

A filter system 100 is provided to filter un-dissolved solids from theliquid in the treating chamber 16. The filter system 100 includes acoarse filter 102 and a fine filter 104, which can be a removable basket106 residing the sump 51, with the coarse filter 102 being a screen 108circumscribing the removable basket 106. Additionally, the recirculationsystem 50 can include a rotating filter in addition to or in place ofthe either or both of the coarse filter 102 and fine filter 104. Otherfilter arrangements are contemplated such as an ultrafiltration system.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an alternative user interface 124located at the front side 29 of the door assembly 20. The alternativeuser interface 124 is similar to the user interface 24 (FIG. 1 )illustrated at a top portion 27 of the door assembly 20, where thealternative user interface 124 can be used instead of or with the userinterface 24. It is contemplated that the user interface 24 or thealternative user interface 124 or a portion of the user interface 24 orthe alternative user interface 124 can be on the side of the doorassembly 20 or projected on the floor adjacent the door assembly 20.

The door assembly 20 can include a handle assembly 131 for selectivelyopening and closing the treating chamber 16. A dish cycle selector 132can be included as a portion of the alternative user interface 124. Thedish cycle selector 132 can include multiple selection or communicationregions, illustrated as cycle selection 132 a and options selection 132b. The cycle selection 132 a can allow for a user to select from dishcycles that include heavy, normal, 1 hour wash, sensor/automatic, orcustom. The options selection 132 b can allow for a user to selectcomplimentary feature to the selected dish cycle. By way of non-limitingexample, a user, at the options selection 132 b, can select one or moreof sanitary rinse, heat dry, high temperature wash, or repeat.

A humidity cycle selector 126, similar to the humidity cycle selector26, can be included in or adjacent the alternative user interface 124.The humidity cycle selector 126 can include any number of screens,buttons, or other communication devices to communicate with the user.For example, the humidity cycle selector 126, can include an on/off 126a where the user can select to turn on or turn off the automatichumidifying cycle of operation. It is also contemplated that, at thehumidity cycle selector 126, the user can select a humidity threshold126 b, wherein when a sensed humidity is below the selected humiditythreshold, the automatic humidifying cycle of operation will beperformed. It is further contemplated that a current humidity level 126c of the exterior 112 of the dishwasher 10 can be provided at thehumidity cycle selector 126. Time of operation 126 d, delayed start forthe humidifying cycle of operation, and other controls, selections, ordisplays are contemplated at the humidity cycle selector 126.

Optionally, a vent 216, similar to the vent 116, can be more than onevent, illustrated as a first vent 216 a and a second vent 216 b. Thefirst vent 216 a and the second vent 216 b are located, by way ofexample, at the front side 29 of the door assembly 20 adjacent thehandle assembly 131. It is contemplated that the first vent 216 a andthe second vent 216 b can be used to exhaust air from the treatingchamber 16 (FIG. 2 ) during one or more of the humidifying cycle ofoperation or the dish treating cycle of operation.

As illustrated schematically in FIG. 4 , the controller 22 can becoupled with components or subcomponents of the dishwasher 10.Components that are coupled to the controller 22 can send and receivesignals. Additionally, the controller 22 can sense, monitor, and controlthe electricity supplied to the coupled components. Further, if thecomponent has subcomponents, for example a sensor and a motor, thesubcomponents (motor and sensor) can independently communicate with thecontroller 22.

The controller 22 is coupled to and can selectively activate the inlineheater 91 or the heating element 92 based on the dish treating cycle ofoperation or the humidifying cycle of operation.

The controller 22 is coupled to the drain pump 62 for draining liquidfrom the treating chamber 16 during the dish treating cycle ofoperation.

The recirculation pump 53 can be coupled to the controller 22 forrecirculating the wash liquid during the dish treating cycle ofoperation or for providing liquid to the treating chamber 16 during thehumidifying cycle of operation.

The at least one remote humidity sensor 23 or the at least one localhumidity sensor can be coupled to the controller 22. The communicationbetween the humidity sensors 23, 25 and the controller 22 can be director via a wireless communication device 142. The wireless communicationdevice 142 can include at least a wireless receiver for receivingsignals from the at least one remote humidity sensor 23 or the at leastone local humidity sensor 25.

The controller 22 can also send signals or receive input from one ormore sensors 140. Non-limiting examples of sensors that can becommunicably coupled with the controller 22 include, to name a few,ambient air temperature sensor, treating chamber air temperature sensor,treating chamber liquid temperature, liquid temperature in one or moreportions of the recirculation system 50, the water supply system 70,door open/close sensor, and turbidity sensor. Optionally, the one ormore sensors 140 can directly or wirelessly communicate with thecontroller 22.

The opening assembly 21 can be actuated by the controller 22. That is,based on the dish treating cycle of operation or the humidifying cycleof operation, the controller 22 can provide a signal to the openingassembly 21 to open the door assembly 20 by pushing or releasing thedoor assembly 20 away from the tub 14.

The controller 22 can also communicate with the recirculation valve 59,the household water valve 71, the controllable valve 77, the returnvalve 79, and the valve 85.

A memory 150 and a central processing unit (CPU) 152 can be included inor in communication with the controller 22.

The memory 150 can be used for storing control software or lookupinformation used by the CPU 152. The stored information can includecompleting any number of dish treating cycles of operation andhumidifying cycles of operation cycle using the dishwasher 10 and anyadditional software. For example, the memory 150 can store one or morepre-programmed automatic cycles of operation for dish treating orhumidifying that can be selected by a user and executed by thedishwasher 10.

The controller 22 is coupled to the user interface 24. The controller 22can receive input from a user at the user interface 24. Additionally,the controller 22 can provide an output via the user interface 24 toprovide information to the user.

Optionally, the controller 22 can include or communicate with a wirelesscommunication device 142. The wireless communication device 142 can, forexample, allow the user from a mobile device, to select automatic cyclesof operation for dish treating or humidifying. Additionally, oralternatively, the wireless communication device 142 can be a receiverin communication with the at least one remote humidity sensor 23 or theone or more sensors 140. That is, the wireless communication device 142can receive a wirelessly transmitted signal from the at least one remotehumidity sensor 23 or the one or more sensors 140.

FIG. 5 illustrates a method 200 of operating the dishwasher 10 as ahumidifier. At 202, in response to an input indicating the humidifyingcycle of operation, the humidifying cycle of operation is implemented.The implementation of humidifying cycle of operation does not permit thesimultaneous implementation of the dish treating cycle of operation. Thehumidifying cycle of operation and the dish treating cycle of operationcan operate serially. The term “serially” as used herein means one afterthe other, successive, and not concurrent or together. The humidifyingcycle of operation and the dish treating cycle of operation do not runat the same time. That is, the dishwasher 10 implements the humidifyingcycle without the simultaneous implementation of the dish treating cycleof operation.

The input indicating the humidifying cycle of operation can be a userselection on the user interface 24 or the humidity cycle selector 26.The user selection can be made between at least one of the humidifyingcycle of operation and the dish treating cycle of operation. Forexample, at the user interface 24 the user can provide input at thehumidity cycle selector 26 to implement the humidifying cycle ofoperation. Alternatively, the user can implement the dish treating cycleof operation at the dish cycle selector 132.

Additionally, or alternatively, the input indicating the humidifyingcycle of operation can be an output from the at least one remotehumidity sensor 23 or the at least one local humidity sensor 25. Forexample, the controller 22 can receive a wirelessly transmitted input inthe form of a signal generated from the at least one remote humiditysensor 23 spaced, distinct, or separate from the dishwasher 10. By wayof further non-limiting example, the controller 22 can receive adirectly (wired) transmitted input in the form of a signal generatedfrom the at least one local humidity sensor 25 coupled to or located atthe dishwasher 10. The signal or transmitted input can be a humiditysignal received by the dishwasher 10, where the humidity signal can beindicative of a humidity level of an environment. The environment can bean indoor home or business, illustrated as the exterior 112 of thedishwasher 10.

The output or humidity signal transmitted from the at least one remotehumidity sensor 23 can be received by the dishwasher 10 at 142 incommunication with the controller 22. Once received by the controller22, the dishwasher 10 can use the humidity signal to determine thehumidity level. The humidity level can be compared to a humiditythreshold. If the humidity level is below the humidity threshold and thedishwasher is not operating a dish treating cycle, the controller 22 canimplement the humidifying cycle of operation.

The at least one local humidity sensor 25 or the at least one remotehumidity sensor 23 can be prompted, by the controller 22 for example, toprovide the humidity signal. Alternatively, the humidity signal can becontinuously supplied to the controller 22 by the at least one localhumidity sensor 25 or the at least one remote humidity sensor 23 locatedat or coupled to the dishwasher 10.

At 204, moisture-laden air is generated within the treating chamber 16of the dishwasher 10. By way of non-limiting example, the moisture-ladenair can be generated by heating liquid within the dishwasher 10. Liquidcan be provided to the sump 51 via the water supply system 70 or therecirculation pump 53. The liquid in the sump 51 can be heated by theheating element 92 in the form of a submersible heater. Additionally, oralternatively, the liquid can be heated by flowing liquid through theinline heater 91.

The volume, number of heating element 92 elements activated, or otheraspects of generating moisture-laden air portion of the humidifyingcycle of operation can be adjusted by the controller 22 based on thedetermined humidity level of the exterior 112 of the dishwasher 10.

At 206, the generated moisture-laden air in the treating chamber 16 isexhausted to the exterior 112 of the dishwasher 10. By way ofnon-limiting example, the moisture-laden air can be exhausted viaventing the moisture-laden air from the treating chamber 16 to theexterior 112 surrounding the dishwasher 10 via one or more vents 116.The venting of the moisture-laden air can include operating the exhaustfan 117.

It is contemplated that venting the generated moisture-laden air fromthe treating chamber 16 can include at least partially opening the doorassembly 20. The opening assembly 21 can push or release the doorassembly 20 from the tub 14 to allow the moisture-laden air from thetreating chamber 16 to flow to the exterior 112 of the dishwasher 10.

It is further contemplated that the exhausting of the moisture-laden airfrom the treating chamber 16 can be via the conduit 118 coupled to theHVAC system 120, which is fluidly coupled to the exterior of thedishwasher 10. That is, the moisture-laden air from the treating chamber16 can flow to the exterior 112 via the HVAC system 120 or any otherhousehold or business duct system.

Optionally, after a predetermined amount of time, the implementing ofthe humidifying cycle of operation can terminated. Alternatively, theimplementing of the humidifying cycle of operation can be terminated inresponse to an additional humidity signal received by the dishwasher 10.That is, if the additional humidity signal received by the controller 22determines the humidity level stratifies the predetermined threshold,the humidifying cycle of operation can initiate the end or terminationportion of the humidifying cycle.

The humidifying cycle of operation provides the opportunity for a two inone dishwasher that can perform as a traditional dishwasher and ahumidifier. While capable of implementing two operations; thehumidifying cycle of operation and the dish treating cycle, the twooperations differ and cannot be co-implemented.

During the implementation of the humidifying cycle of operation, thetreating chemistry from the dispenser assembly 48 is not dispensed intothe treating chamber 16. However, it is contemplated that a humidifieradditive that enhances the smell of the moisture-laden air or furtherpurifies the liquid to be vaporized can be added during theimplementation of the humidifying cycle of operation.

Optionally, during the implementation of the humidifying cycle ofoperation, liquid is provided to the treating chamber 16, but is notrecirculated in the treating chamber 16, for example, from the sump 51back to the sprayers 43, 44, 45, 49.

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a steam dryer 310 for treatingclothing items. The steam dryer 310 is similar to the dishwasher 10,therefore, similar functioning parts will be identified with likenumerals increased by 300, with it being understood that the descriptionof the like parts of the dishwasher 10 can apply to the steam dryer 310.

The steam dryer 310 has a variety of systems, some of which arecontrollable, to implement an automatic cycle of operation of treatingclothing items or an automatic cycle of humidification. The steam dryer310 can include a tub 314, which at least partially defines a treatingchamber 316 that can receive clothing items. Optionally, a closure inthe form of a door assembly 320 is mounted for movement between openedand closed positions to selectively open and close an opening to the tub314.

The systems supported by the chassis, while essentially limitless, caninclude a drain system 360, a water supply system 370, a drying system380, a water heating assembly 390, and venting system 410. These systemsare used to implement a clothing item or laundry treating cycle ofoperation.

The water supply system 370, the water heating assembly 390, and theventing system 410 can be collectively controlled to function as ahumidifier assembly 430.

The drain system 360 drains liquid from the treating chamber 316. Thedrain system 360 can include a drain pump 362 fluidly coupling thetreating chamber 316 to a drain line 364. The drain line 364 can beconnected to a household drain (not shown) exterior of the steam dryer310.

The water supply system 370 is provided for supplying fresh water to thesteam dryer 310 from a household water supply 371 via one or morevalves. The water supply system 370 includes a valve or water supplyunit 372 that can directly fluidly couple the household water supply 371to the tub 314. Additionally, or alternatively, the water supply unit372 can fluidly couple the household water supply 371 to one or morecomponents of the water heating assembly 390, such as an inline heateror steam generator 391. The steam generator 391 is then fluidly coupledto the treating chamber 316 via one or more valves or conduits and canprovide moisture-laden air to the treating chamber 316.

The water heating assembly 390 can include the steam generator 391 or aheating element 392. While illustrated as having both the steamgenerator 391 and the heating element 392, it is contemplated that thewater heating assembly 390 can include any number of heating orelements, including just one of the steam generator 391 or the heatingelement 392.

The heating element 392 is illustrated as a submersible heater orimmersion heater, that is illustrated, by example as located in thetreating chamber 316. That is, the heating element 392 can be used toheat water in the treating chamber 316 to generate moisture-laden air.It is contemplated that the heating element 392 can be one or moreheating elements located in or adjacent the treating chamber 316.

The drying system 380 is provided to aid in the drying of the clothingitems during the laundry treating cycle of operation. The drying system380 can include one or more components of the water heating assembly 390such as a heating element 392, where the heating element 392 can be usedto heat one or more portions or the interior of the tub 314.

Optionally, the drying system 380 can include a drive system 381 forrotating or otherwise moving the tub 314 or the treating chamber 316.

The venting system 410 fluidly couples the treating chamber 316 and theexterior 412 of the steam dryer 310. As illustrated, by way of example,the venting system 410 can fluidly couple the treating chamber 316 tothe exterior 412 via one or more conduits and at least one outletillustrated as a vent 416. It is also contemplated that within the oneor more conduits is an exhaust fan 117.

The venting system 410 can include any number of inlets, outlets orvents, flow directors, conduits, fans, impellers, heat exchangers, orvalve systems to control or promote the ventilation of moisture-ladenair from the treating chamber 316 to the exterior 412.

A controller 322 can be located in the steam dryer 310. Similar to thecontroller 22, the controller 322 can be coupled with components orsubcomponents of the steam dryer 310 controlling the components orsubcomponents according to the laundry treating cycle of operation orthe humidifying cycle of operation.

The controller 22 is coupled to and can selectively activate valves forthe household water supply 371 and the water supply unit 372. Furtherthe controller 22 is coupled to the steam generator 391 and the heatingelement 392.

Optionally, the controller 322 is coupled to the user interface 324. Thecontroller 322 can receive input from a user at the user interface 324.Additionally, the controller 322 can provide an output via the userinterface 324 to provide information to the user.

The controller 322 can also be in communication with the drive system381, the fan 417, and the drain pump 362.

At least one humidity sensor 323 can be separate or coupled to the steamdryer 310. The at least one humidity sensor 323 can be in communicationwith the controller 322 via a wired or wireless connection, althoughmost likely wireless.

It is contemplated that the steam dryer 310 can be a laundry treatingappliance such as a washer/dryer combo or washing machine having avariety of systems, some of which are controllable, to implement anautomatic cycle of operation of treating clothing items or an automaticcycle of humidification. It is also contemplated that the steam dryer310 can be a cooking appliance having a variety of systems, some ofwhich are controllable, to implement an automatic cycle of operation ofcooking a food item or an automatic cycle of humidification.

Benefits of aspects of the disclosure include a 2 in 1 householdappliance where the dishwasher can operate as a humidifier where theuser receives the benefits of both a dishwasher and a humidifier.Operating as a humidifier, the dishwasher can provide health benefitsfor the user (i.e. reduced virus transmission, sinus and respiratorybenefits, and a reduction in cracked lips/dry skin).

Another benefit is that the dishwasher, operating as a humidifier, canalso improve the heating efficiency of the home. Moist air can hold heatlonger than dry air, creating fewer cycles of operation for the homeheating apparatus.

Yet another benefit is a space savings. The dishwasher having thehumidifying assembly reduces the need for additional home humidifiers.

Further, there is a cost savings, as the user does not need to buy botha dishwasher and a humidifier, rather the dishwasher can execute (atseparate or distinct times) both the dish treating cycle of operationand the humidifying cycle of operation.

Further still, the dishwasher can receive information about the home orbusiness humidity level from a remote device such as, but not limitedto, a thermostat, mobile device, HVAC system, or other remote or localhumidity senor.

To the extent not already described, the different features andstructures of the various aspects can be used in combination with eachother as desired. That one feature cannot be illustrated in all of theaspects is not meant to be construed that it cannot be, but is done forbrevity of description. Thus, the various features of the differentaspects can be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whetheror not the new aspects are expressly described. Combinations orpermutations of features described herein are covered by thisdisclosure.

This written description uses examples to disclose aspects of thedisclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any personskilled in the art to practice aspects of the disclosure, includingmaking and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporatedmethods. While aspects of the disclosure have been specificallydescribed in connection with certain specific details thereof, it is tobe understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation.Reasonable variation and modification are possible within the scope ofthe forgoing disclosure and drawings without departing from the spiritof the disclosure, which is defined in the appended claims.

Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter ofthe following clauses:

A method of operating a dishwasher as a humidifier, the methodcomprising in response to an input indicating a humidifying cycle ofoperation, implementing the humidifying cycle of operation by generatingmoisture-laden air within a treating chamber of the dishwasher, andemitting the generated moisture-laden air to an exterior surrounding thedishwasher, without the simultaneous implementation of a dish treatingcycle of operation.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the input indicating thehumidifying cycle of operation comprises a user selection on a userinterface of the dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the user selection is madebetween at least one of the humidifying cycle of operation and the dishtreating cycle of operation.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the input indicating thehumidifying cycle of operation comprises a wirelessly transmitted signalreceived by the dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the wirelessly transmittedsignal is generated from a humidity sensor remote from the dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the input indicating thehumidifying cycle of operation is an output from a humidity sensor.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the generatingmoisture-laden air comprises heating liquid within the dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the heating liquid withinthe dishwasher comprises at least one of flowing liquid through aninline heater within the dishwasher or heating liquid within a sump ofthe dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the emitting the generatedmoisture-laden air comprising venting the generated moisture-laden airfrom the treating chamber of the dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the venting the generatedmoisture-laden air from the treating chamber comprises operating anexhaust fan in the dishwasher.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the exhaust fan emits thegenerated moisture-laden air through a closure to the treating chamber.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the venting the generatedmoisture-laden air from the treating chamber comprises opening a closureto the treating chamber.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein liquid is not recirculatedin the treating chamber during the implementing of the humidifying cycleof operation.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein treating chemistry is notdispensed into the treating chamber during the implementing of thehumidifying cycle of operation.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the implementing of thehumidifying cycle of operation is terminated after a predeterminedamount of time.

The method of any preceding clause, wherein the implementing of thehumidifying cycle of operation is terminated in response to a humiditysignal received by the dishwasher.

A dishwasher for treating dishes according to a dish treating cycle ofoperation, the dishwasher comprising a tub at least partially defining atreating chamber, a door assembly for selectively closing the treatingchamber, a water supply system fluidly coupling a household water supplyto the treating chamber, a ventilation system for exhaustingmoisture-laden air from the treating chamber, a controller locatedwithin the dishwasher housing, wherein the controller includesinformation related to a humidifying cycle of operation and the dishtreating cycle of operation, and a receiver located within the housingand in communication with the controller, wherein the receiver receivesa humidity signal indicative of a humidity level of an environmentexterior of the dishwasher, wherein the controller selectively operatesthe humidifying cycle of operating of the dishwasher in response to thehumidity signal received by the receiver and communicated to thecontroller.

The dishwasher of any preceding clause, wherein the receiver is awireless receiver and receives the humidity signal from a humiditysensor remote of the dishwasher.

The dishwasher of any preceding clause, further comprising an inlineheater upstream of the treating chamber or a submersible heater to heatliquid to generate the moisture-laden air within the treating chamber.

The dishwasher of any preceding clause, wherein the ventilation systemfurther comprises a conduit fluidly coupling the treating chamber and aheating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of operating a dishwasher as ahumidifier, the method comprising: in response to an input indicating ahumidifying cycle of operation, implementing the humidifying cycle ofoperation by generating moisture-laden air within a treating chamber ofthe dishwasher, and emitting the generated moisture-laden air to anexterior surrounding the dishwasher, without the simultaneousimplementation of a dish treating cycle of operation.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the input indicating the humidifying cycle of operationcomprises a user selection on a user interface of the dishwasher.
 3. Themethod of claim 2, wherein the user selection is made between at leastone of the humidifying cycle of operation and the dish treating cycle ofoperation.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the input indicating thehumidifying cycle of operation comprises a wirelessly transmitted signalreceived by the dishwasher.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein thewirelessly transmitted signal is generated from a humidity sensor remotefrom the dishwasher.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the inputindicating the humidifying cycle of operation is an output from ahumidity sensor.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the generatingmoisture-laden air comprises heating liquid within the dishwasher. 8.The method of claim 7, wherein the heating liquid within the dishwashercomprises at least one of flowing liquid through an inline heater withinthe dishwasher or heating liquid within a sump of the dishwasher.
 9. Themethod of claim 7, wherein the emitting the generated moisture-laden aircomprising venting the generated moisture-laden air from the treatingchamber of the dishwasher.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein theventing the generated moisture-laden air from the treating chambercomprises operating an exhaust fan in the dishwasher.
 11. The method ofclaim 10, wherein the exhaust fan emits the generated moisture-laden airthrough a closure to the treating chamber.
 12. The method of claim 9,wherein the venting the generated moisture-laden air from the treatingchamber comprises opening a closure to the treating chamber.
 13. Themethod of claim 1, wherein liquid is not recirculated in the treatingchamber during the implementing of the humidifying cycle of operation.14. The method of claim 13, wherein treating chemistry is not dispensedinto the treating chamber during the implementing of the humidifyingcycle of operation.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the implementingof the humidifying cycle of operation is terminated after apredetermined amount of time.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein theimplementing of the humidifying cycle of operation is terminated inresponse to a humidity signal received by the dishwasher.
 17. Adishwasher for treating dishes according to a dish treating cycle ofoperation, the dishwasher comprising: a tub at least partially defininga treating chamber; a door assembly for selectively closing the treatingchamber; a water supply system fluidly coupling a household water supplyto the treating chamber; a ventilation system for exhaustingmoisture-laden air from the treating chamber; a controller locatedwithin the dishwasher housing, wherein the controller includesinformation related to a humidifying cycle of operation and the dishtreating cycle of operation; and a receiver located within the housingand in communication with the controller, wherein the receiver receivesa humidity signal indicative of a humidity level of an environmentexterior of the dishwasher; wherein the controller selectively operatesthe humidifying cycle of operating of the dishwasher in response to thehumidity signal received by the receiver and communicated to thecontroller.
 18. The dishwasher of claim 17, wherein the receiver is awireless receiver and receives the humidity signal from a humiditysensor remote of the dishwasher.
 19. The dishwasher of claim 17, furthercomprising an inline heater upstream of the treating chamber or asubmersible heater to heat liquid to generate the moisture-laden airwithin the treating chamber.
 20. The dishwasher of claim 19, wherein theventilation system further comprises a conduit fluidly coupling thetreating chamber and a heating, ventilation, and air conditioningsystem.